How Private Travel Advising Works
Custom Vacation Planning with a Personal Travel Advisor
Planning an incredible vacation should be exciting - not overwhelming. We help travelers confidently plan everything from relaxing beach vacations to multi-country European adventures, cruises, family vacations, and custom itineraries.
Whether you simply need help finding the right resort or want someone to build an entire trip from scratch, we provide as much or as little planning support as you need.
Step 1: Discovery
Every trip starts with a conversation. We'll discuss:
- Your destination ideas/ Travel style/ Must-see Experiences
- Budget
- Travel dates
- Flights
- Transportation
- Special celebrations
- Accessibility or family needs
The more I understand your travel style, the better recommendations I can provide.
Step 2: Research & Recommendations
This is where the value of working with a travel advisor really begins. Instead of spending dozens of hours comparing websites, reviews, and prices, I research options that fit your goals. Depending on your trip, I'll recommend:
- Hotels/Resorts/Cruises
- Tours
- Private guides
- Transportation
- Vacation packages
- Travel insurance
As an independent travel advisor with access to preferred travel partners around the world, I can often provide additional amenities, perks, or value that aren't available when booking on your own.
Step 3: Booking
Once you've chosen your itinerary, I handle the reservations. This includes coordinating:
- Hotels
- Cruises
- Vacation packages
- Transfers
- Rail
- Excursions
- Specialty travel
I'll also help ensure everything fits together into one seamless itinerary.
Step 4: Before You Leave
Before departure, you'll receive:
- Final itinerary
- Confirmation numbers
- Travel tips
- Packing recommendations
- Entry requirements
- Local transportation guidance
- Helpful destination advice
All of which is available via the FORA app, web browsers, and printable PDF.
Step 5: Travel with confidence
If unexpected issues arise while you're traveling, I'm available to help advocate for you and assist with solutions whenever possible. My goal isn't simply to book a trip. It's to help you enjoy your vacation with confidence from start to finish.
Planning Fees
Many vacations can be planned without charging a planning fee because I earn commission from travel suppliers.
For more complex itineraries (including multi-city Europe trips, custom international itineraries, detailed sightseeing plans, or trips requiring extensive research) I charge a planning fee of $50 per day of travel.
Examples include:
- Two-week Italy itineraries
- Ireland road trips
- Scandinavia adventures
- National Park vacations
- Multi-country European trips
- Customized honeymoon itineraries
This planning fee covers the time spent researching, designing, coordinating, and refining your itinerary so every detail works together.
Why Work with Clark Co. Travel?
When you work with Clark Co Travel, you're getting more than someone who books hotels. You're working with someone who helps create vacations that fit your goals, budget, and travel style while saving you valuable time and reducing stress.